Remains of the late “Soldier” Lucius Banda who died last Sunday at a hospital in South Africa while receiving treatment for a kidney problem has been laid to rest at his home Sosola Village in Traditional Authority Nsamala in Balaka.
Thousands of Malawians across the country led by the President Dr. Lazarus Chakwera thronged the village to pay their last respects to the fallen music icon.
Until his death, late Lucius Banda was an Advisor to President Chakwera’s on youth and arts.
The casket carrying Lucius Banda being interred in his grave
At exactly 3: 11 PM, the body of the legendary musician was lowered to his final resting place.Â
Most of the people who spoke during the funeral ceremony held at Balaka Stadium, Banda was revered for what was described as loving and compassionate for others.Â
Late Lucius Banda will highly be remembered through his music which centred on various social aspects of life.
Banda born in June 1970 is survived by a wife and three children.
President Chakwera and Madam Chakwera laying the wreathPaul Banda and his wife
In an effort to rescue Malawians facing hunger following poor harvests due to dry spell and other disasters, FDH Bank has donated 100 metric tonnes of maize worth K95. 5 million to National Food Reserve Agency(NRFA).
Speaking during the donation handover ceremony in Lilongwe, FDH Bank Head of Marketing and Communications Levi Nkunika said the donation is a direct response to President Lazarus Chakwera’s call for assistance after declaring State of Disaster in March this year.
Nkunika handing over cheque to Macheka
On his part,NRFA Chief Executive Officer (CEO) George Macheka said the consignment will go a long way to complement the food mobilisation efforts by NFRA, calling on more donors to help with the strategic grain reserve replenishment, targeting 120 000 metric tonnes.
About 9.9 million people are facing hunger in Malawi following the El Nino weather that caused droughts and floods.
A Lilongwe-based business woman Clara Gondwe says she is making a profit of K600, 000 every month from her cosmetic school which she opened in December, 2023.
Cosmetic school is a school that offers courses on the application of beauty treatments such as hairstyling, nail styling, cosmetics, skincare and non-permanent or permanent hair removal.
In an interview with our journalist Chisomo Phiri,Clara, 47, said the school called Brows and Lashes Beauty School is situated in Lilongwe’s Area 18A along Ntchisi Road.
“I obtained my diploma in cosmetology here in Malawi, worked for 2 years in Malawi and thereafter, I travelled to United Arab Emirates in 2014 and worked there for 10 years.
“While in the United Arab Emirates,I realised there was alot we need to polish up in Malawi.I then thought of opening my own school that I should teach what I learnt from overseas. If one graduates from Brows and Lashes Beauty School, she/he will be able to work anywhere else around the world without meeting challenges.”
She said on top of the cosmetic school, she also runs a beauty parlour which she opened in 2023 as well.
“Our clients come on appointments as well as walk-ins. We also do home services.”
Asked on what challenges she meet in her business,Clara said:”I meet alot of challenges in terms of beauty and hair products.They are very expensive here in Malawi hence people do not want to pay to meet our expenses.
“If you want more clients as a salon owner, you need to reduce the price and work at a loss.”
Asked to comment on how she sees business in Malawi, Clara explained:”There is much we need to work on. For example, we need to work 7 days a week even on sundays.And closing time should change. We must be closing abit late considering working class people. Alot of businesses in Malawi do not open on Sundays and working hours are also less. Let us try as Malawians to work till late.”
Asked on what government should do to uplift businesses in the country, Clara stated:” Our government should be linient on business owners in terms of loans. If we want to register to Teveta, that should also be linient. We want to work hand in hand with the government. Promote us by giving young girls and boys loans so that they can be able to register in our schools. It is now high time government should promote beauty schools and realise cosmetology as a marketable career.”
Chikangawa is set to host a saddening event as supporters and sympathizers gather for the SKC Candle Light Memorial Vigil on July 6, 2024. The solemn occasion, organized to commemorate and honor the life of a beloved figure, promises a day of remembrance and reflection.
The memorial proceedings will commence with prayers and worship sessions starting promptly at 10:00 AM. This solemn start aims to set a tone of reverence and spiritual contemplation among attendees.
Following the morning prayers, a comprehensive mass program is scheduled to commence at 14:00 hours. This segment will include tributes, speeches, and reflections on the life and legacy of the individual being commemorated.
As dusk approaches, the atmosphere will shift to the candle lighting ceremony, scheduled to begin at 18:00 hours. The symbolic act of candle lighting symbolizes hope, remembrance, and solidarity among those gathered.
Participants are encouraged to observe a dress code of black or dark attire, symbolizing mourning and respect. The somber dress reflects the solemnity of the occasion and honors the memory of the individual being remembered.
On emotional expression, The organizers emphasize that emotions are natural and welcome during the vigil. Attendees are encouraged not to suppress their feelings but to find solace and strength in communal support and shared memories.
Unified resilience, A resolute message echoes throughout the preparations: “Don’t be afraid. Don’t tire. Don’t display any weakness.” These words encapsulate the spirit of unity and determination among those attending, united in their commitment to honor and cherish the legacy left behind.
In conclusion, the SKC Candle Light Memorial Vigil in Chikangawa stands as a testament to the enduring impact of an individual’s life on their community. Through prayer, reflection, and the symbolic act of candle lighting, participants will pay homage to a cherished figure and find solace in collective remembrance.
Fatima Ndaila Onani, the esteemed Chairperson of the Muslim Women Organisation (MWO), has passed away, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and exemplary leadership within the community.
Mrs. Onani’s contributions to the MWO and her impact on the lives of many have been widely acknowledged and cherished. Her tenure as Chairperson was marked by a steadfast commitment to uplifting and empowering Muslim women, advocating for their rights, and fostering unity within the organization.
Onani
Under her guidance, the MWO flourished as a pillar of support and empowerment for Muslim women across the region. Mrs. Onani’s leadership was characterized by compassion, integrity, and a deep sense of duty towards her community.
Her sudden demise has left a profound void in the hearts of those who knew and worked with her. Tributes have poured in from members of the MWO, community leaders, and individuals whose lives were touched by her kindness and unwavering dedication to service.
“Mrs. Onani’s leadership was instrumental in guiding the MWO through various challenges and opportunities,” remarked a spokesperson from the organization. “Her passion for empowering Muslim women and her vision for a more inclusive society will continue to inspire us.”
Mrs. Onani’s legacy extends beyond her role in the MWO. She was a devoted advocate for social justice, education, and community development, actively engaging in initiatives aimed at improving the welfare of marginalized groups.
As the community mourns her passing, Mrs. Fatima Ndaila Onani will be remembered fondly for her selfless contributions, her compassionate spirit, and her enduring commitment to serving others.
Funeral arrangements and tributes are expected to reflect the profound impact Mrs. Onani had on her community and beyond, honoring her memory as a leader, advocate, and cherished member of the Muslim Women Organisation.
In honoring her legacy, the Muslim community and all who knew her unite in grief while celebrating a life dedicated to making a difference and leaving an indelible mark on hearts and minds.
